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Aerial View
experience inspired by the richness of
the surrounding nature," said Denis Aerial View
Laframboise, President of BALNEA spa +
réserve thermale.
This marks the latest milestone in a
significant expansion project initiated in
spring 2023, supported financially by the
Quebec Ministry of Tourism under the
Tourism Industry Recovery Assistance
Program (PARIT).
Architecture in Harmony with Nature
The project references the surrounding
natural environment through its
materiality and form. The concrete
volume of the spa emerges from the
landscape, referencing the texture and
natural rock of the Appalachians. The
form creates a plinth to support the new
thermal bath, and expanded spa terraces.
“The generous new thermal bath and
spa terrace grounds the scheme within the
landscape. The use of natural materials
enhances the reading of the “spa in
nature”, while offering a wide range of
haptic user experiences,” added Brian
MacKay-Lyons, Founding Partner of
MacKay-Lyons Sweetapple Architects.
A Project Larger Than Life
In April 2023, BALNEA embarked
on an extensive eco-friendly expansion
project to realise its vision, as the
establishment prepares to celebrate its
20th anniversary in October 2025. The
dw • Issue 285 53

